Virgin Atlantic and Joby Aviation Unveil UK's First Air Taxi Service

Virgin Atlantic and Joby Aviation have announced a partnership to introduce the UK's first electric air taxi service, aiming to transform short-distance travel with zero-emission aircraft. The initiative, revealed on 15 March, will focus on connecting major cities and airports, beginning with routes from Heathrow and Manchester.

The collaboration builds on Joby Aviation’s existing agreement with Delta Air Lines, a company that holds a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic. Joby's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, designed to carry a pilot and four passengers, will serve as the core of this operation. These aircraft can reach speeds of up to 200 mph and travel distances of 100 miles, making them a viable alternative to traditional transport methods.

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, highlighted the airline’s commitment to sustainability and innovation:

"As a leader in sustainability and with innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK."

The air taxis, equipped with six tilting propellers, will enable vertical takeoff and landing, reducing the need for extensive runway infrastructure. This design makes them ideal for urban environments where space is limited. Potential routes under consideration include an eight-minute flight from Heathrow to Canary Wharf and a 15-minute journey from Manchester Airport to Leeds.

JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, emphasized the impact on travel efficiency:

"Together, we are committed to delivering faster options for mobility across the country, including for Virgin Atlantic and Delta customers as they head to the airport or move between UK towns and cities."

Virgin Atlantic plans to integrate the service into its existing customer platforms, allowing passengers to book flights via its app and website. The airline will also facilitate regulatory approvals and support the development of necessary landing sites.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson confirmed the expansion strategy:

"We will look to include travel agents when we come closer to launch."

The pricing for these air taxi services is expected to be comparable to premium ground rideshare options. Joby Aviation intends to establish a network of landing sites across the UK to support the rollout of this technology, marking a significant step toward integrating electric air mobility into the country’s transport system.